Freshfields advises Smiths Group plc on £2bn sale of Smiths Detection to CVC

Global law firm Freshfields is advising Smiths Group plc on the proposed sale of its Smiths Detection division to CVC Capital Partners at an enterprise value of £2bn. Smiths Group plc is a FTSE100 global engineering business focused on creating sustainable solutions across sectors including energy, security and industrial technology. The transaction marks a significant milestone for Smiths as it continues to focus on its core, high-performance industrial business. Completion is anticipated in the second half of 2026, subject to consultation processes and regulatory clearances.

The Freshfields team is led by Piers Prichard Jones, Stephen Hewes and Lucy Cliff, closely supported by Jenny Leahy, Isabella Coutts, Lily Hilton and Matt Hoser and a cross-practice Freshfields team.